New Zealand whistleblower O'Keeffe, at 28, is the youngest referee on the international circuit but Jones says he's more than capable of handling such a high-profile fixture.

Jones was responding to claims made by Cheika on Friday that England deliberately target halfbacks with late hits.

"He's an ophthalmologist and so he'll be able to see anything. I might get my eyes checked by him!" Jones said.

"He has been on the touch when we've played and I met him as a young guy coming through.

"He's a very good young ref and is only 28, which is younger than (England captain) Dylan Hartley, who might be able to give him a few tips about life.

"He's a very competent, accurate and fit referee. He's an intelligent guy and I'm sure he won't be influenced by comments made in the press."

Wallabies World Cup-wining coach Bob Dwyer also added fuel to the flames ahead of the marquee match of the spring tour by reiterating his claim that England props Joe Marler and Dan Cole's scrummaging technique is illegal.